Defensive Driving Tips That Can Prevent a Car Accident

Chances are you know someone who has been in a car accident, or you’ve been in one yourself. Unfortunately, automobile accidents are common here in the United States and can range from simple fender benders to catastrophic events that end in serious permanent injury or worse yet, death. Because no one wants to be a victim and another statistic, it’s important to always take driving seriously and be a responsible driver at all times. But what does that mean exactly?

We’ve gone ahead and put together a number of defensive driving tips that can help you prevent being in a car accident and becoming another number.

The tips are listed in the article

Stay Focused on the Road

The first tip is probably the most important, and that is to stay focused on the road. Distracted driving is one of the most common reasons of car accidents. This means you aren’t focused on your phone, changing the radio station, eating/drinking, or even a conversation that takes a lot of your mental focus.

Follow the Posted Speed Limit

Speed limits aren’t just randomly chosen for no reason at all, the posted speed limit is meant for your safety and others. Speeding will not only increase your odds of getting a ticket, but it also means you are no longer driving at the safest speed for the road conditions and the environment surrounding that road.

Leave Distance Between You and Other Cars

You also want to be sure you’re always leaving a safe amount of distance between you and other cars. You need room to brake in an emergency or maneuver quickly if necessary. If the road conditions aren’t good, then you need to leave even more space between you and other cars.

Always Use Your Turn Signal

People aren’t mind readers, and unless you are alerting other drivers of your intentions, you are putting yourself and others at risk. A turn signal is meant to alert other drivers and pedestrians of your next move, so you also want to be sure you’re not leaving it until the last minute.

Keep Your Car in Good Condition

While this may not seem like a defensive driving tip, in reality, a car that works properly is another way to protect yourself and others. This means keeping up with regular oil changes, maintenance, and repairs.

What If You Are in an Accident?

Even with these defensive driving tips, sometimes the unthinkable can still happen and you can find yourself in a car accident. Whether you are at fault or the victim in the auto accident, WM Andrew Wills II, a personal injury attorney in Colorado Springs, recommends speaking to a lawyer as soon as possible after the accident occurs. If you are the victim, there is likely compensation and damages to claim. A personal injury lawyer will have experience with these types of legal battles and fighting for your rights.

Avoiding Potential Accidents

Each of these defensive driving tips is meant to make you a more responsible and prepared driver, which means you’ll have a much better chance of avoiding an accident.